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Key stats about Women in League

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The Harvey Norman Women in League initiative aims to celebrate the role of women in Rugby League. Over 140,000 women and girls have a direct connection with Rugby League - whether it be as administrators, players, coaches, employees, volunteers or club members- women really are at the heart of the game.

Going in to its seventh year, the culmination of celebrations occurs at the Harvey Norman Women in League Round. The 2013 Women in League Round will be in Round 10 (May 14-20).

The Harvey Norman Women in League Round has grown to be an integral part of the Telstra Premiership season and is perceived to be one of the most successful, community orientated promotions across the game.

Female participation in Rugby League is at record levels, women’s interest and involvement is at a high across Australia, following a 20 per cent increase in female registrations in 2012 (5,801 in 2012; 4,814 in 2011), and a 100 per cent increase in registered female coaches (172 in 2012; 86 in 2011).

2013 registrations are still being calculated, but early indications show female participation is continuing to increase nationally, while coaching numbers have already risen 50 per cent to 263.

Key Statistics

The appointment of senior female Directors and Managers within the industry continues to grow annually.

The number of women in senior/executive management/board positions has increased to 19 in 2013 (almost double what it was two years ago with 10 in 2011).

There are six women in NRL club board positions (Broncos, Cowboys, Eels, Sea Eagles, Rabbitohs and Warriors).

41% of the game’s NRL club financial members are female, increasing to 88,150 in 2013 (82,250 in 2012).

45% of Rugby League fans are women, with the following NRL Clubs having more female fans than male fans – Panthers, Eels, Knights, Cowboys and Titans.

Female registrations in regular competitions are on the increase. 2013 figures are still being calculated but early indications are that they will be up on 2012 registrations of 5,801 (a 20.5 per cent increase on 2011 – 4,814).

The number of female coaches is set to continue to rise significantly with a 53 per cent increase in numbers already in 2013. 263 have registered so far (172 in 2012).

Already in 2013, 420 women have participated in courses for accreditation in coaching, refereeing and first aid.

27,500 girls have participated (ball in hand) in NRL game development programs in schools across Australia so far in 2013, with that number expected to reach 90,000 by the end of the year.

The NRL has two full-time Female Participation National Development Officers to grow female player numbers and provide relevant new pathways, programs and initiatives.

Elite women’s competitions held annually include the All Stars and Interstate Championships, with the Jillaroos playing in the 2013 Festival of World Cups in the UK in July. This will be their fourth World Cup appearance.

There are 19 countries around the world where women play Rugby League regularly including Australia, England, France, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Russia.

Visit the #WomenInLeague social media hub for your chance to win great prizes.